Bone Mineral Density Tests

A Bone Mineral Density test (BMD) can be used to diagnose osteoporosis and to help determine your risk for future fracture. The most widely recognized bone mineral density test is called a dual X-ray absorptiometry measurement, or DXA. Osteoporosis can develop undetected over long periods before a fracture occurs, so early diagnosis is important.

A DXA, or BMD test, measures the density of your bones (bone mass) and is necessary to determine whether you need medication to help maintain your bone mass, prevent further bone loss or reduce fracture risk. The test is accurate, painless and noninvasive. This test is recommended for women over 65 or any woman with one or more risk factors. A bone density test can:

• Detect osteoporosis before a fracture occurs.
• Help predict your chances of fracturing in the future. Be aware that older age and having had a prior fracture will increase your fracture risk over and above that of low BMD.
• Determine your rate of bone loss and/or monitor the effects of treatment if the test is conducted at intervals of a year or more.

The World Health Organization has established criteria for making the diagnosis of osteoporosis. These criteria are based on measuring the patient’s hip and spine bone mineral density (BMD) compared to the average BMD known for a young healthy population (usually age 20-30). These comparisons measurements are called T-scores.

A T-score of -1and above is considered normal. A T-score of -1 to -2.5 is considered osteopenia, and a risk for developing osteoporosis. A T-score of -2.5 or lower shows significantly low bone mass and is diagnostic of osteoporosis.

BMD is not the only factor to consider: Some patients will have a fracture after minimal or moderate trauma (such as a hip fracture upon falling onto a carpeted floor). From a practical standpoint, many doctors would consider such a person to have osteoporosis (fragile bones), regardless of the T-score, and may recommend treatment.

The Wisconsin Women's Health Foundation offers Achilles bone density screenings at many of our educational outreach events. For more information, contact us by phone or email.